eSIM-capable device
Your phone must have eSIM hardware. Most phones from 2019 onward qualify, including iPhone XS and later, Samsung Galaxy S20 and later, and Google Pixel 3a and later.
Beginner’s guide
How travel eSIMs work
An eSIM is a digital SIM card built into your phone. Instead of swapping a physical card at the airport, you buy a plan online, scan a QR code, and your phone connects to a local network the moment you land. This guide explains how travel eSIMs work, what you need to use one, and how to choose the right plan.
How to set up a travel eSIM in 5 steps
1
Buy a plan
Choose a destination, data allowance, and validity period from a travel eSIM provider such as Airalo, Holafly, Saily, Nomad, or Maya Mobile. Purchase online or in the provider app.
2
Receive a QR code or app install link
The provider sends a QR code by email or delivers it in-app. This QR code contains the eSIM profile — the digital equivalent of a physical SIM card.
3
Install before traveling
Scan the QR code in your phone settings (Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM on iPhone; Settings → Network → Add SIM on Android). You need a Wi-Fi connection for installation. Do this before departure.
4
Enable when you land
At your destination, select the travel eSIM as your data line and enable Data Roaming. The eSIM connects to the local partner network. Your home SIM remains active for calls and messages.
5
Monitor usage and top up if needed
Track data use in the provider app or in phone settings. If you run out, top up in-app (available with Airalo, Nomad, GigSky) or purchase a new plan.
eSIM compatibility requirements
Carrier-unlocked phone
The phone must be unlocked from your home carrier. A carrier-locked phone cannot install a third-party travel eSIM. Contact your carrier to unlock if needed.
Wi-Fi connection for installation
You need internet access to download the eSIM profile. Install at home before traveling — don't wait until you land.
Supported network bands
The eSIM must support the frequency bands used by the local carrier at your destination. Most modern flagships support the required bands internationally, but regional variants can differ.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an eSIM and a physical SIM?
A physical SIM card is a removable chip you insert into your phone. An eSIM is a digital SIM built into your phone's hardware — you activate it by downloading a profile rather than swapping a card. Both connect you to mobile networks the same way. eSIMs are more convenient for travel because you can switch plans without visiting a store or handling a card.
Which phones support eSIM?
Most smartphones from 2019 onward support eSIM, including iPhone XS and later, Samsung Galaxy S20 and later, Google Pixel 3a and later, and most other Android flagship devices from 2020. The phone must also be carrier-unlocked — carrier-locked phones cannot install third-party eSIMs. Check the eSIM compatibility list for your exact device model and regional variant.
Can I have two eSIMs active at the same time?
Many modern phones support dual-SIM with eSIM — one physical SIM and one eSIM, or two eSIMs on some newer models. On a dual-SIM device, your home SIM handles calls and texts while the travel eSIM handles data. You choose which line handles data in your phone settings.
Do I need to delete my home SIM to use a travel eSIM?
No. On a dual-SIM phone, both the home SIM and the travel eSIM can be active simultaneously. Your home number remains reachable for calls, SMS, and banking verification codes while the eSIM provides data.
When should I install the eSIM — before or after landing?
Install before landing. eSIM installation requires a Wi-Fi or cellular data connection. If you land without data and try to install for the first time, you may have no connectivity. Download and install the eSIM while still at home on your own Wi-Fi. The plan will activate automatically when you connect to the local network at the destination.
What happens when my eSIM data runs out?
This depends on the provider. Nomad stops data at the limit with no overage. Airalo allows in-app top-up. Unlimited plans (Holafly, Maya Mobile) do not have a data ceiling — they may throttle speed after heavy use but do not stop connectivity. Check your specific plan's behavior before purchasing.